Residents enjoy Maricopa’s first Night Out

Tuesday evening Maricopa residents took the opportunity to show their support for crime prevention by attending the city’s first Maricopa Night Out. Unfortunately, the monsoon did not take the night off. Clouds and winds were evident during the last hour of the event held at the high school football field from 7 to 9 p.m.

Centex Homes was the presenting sponsor for Maricopa Night Out. Other groups contributing to this first annual event were Bashas’, Circle K, Maricopa Fire District, Ak Chin Fire and Police Departments, Gila River Police Department, Southwest Ambulance, Air Evac, the 100 Club of Arizona, Department of Public Safety, Customs, Border Patrol, 4-H, Red Cross, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Maricopa Tee’s.

The City of Maricopa and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office hosted the evening’s events. Parks, Recreation and Libraries (PRL) Director Marty McDonald coordinated and planned the festivities. The first 500 attendees received a free T-shirt. Music and hot dogs were provided for all.

Maricopa Night Out’s purpose was to support local anti-crime programs and to strengthen law enforcement and community partnerships. The evening’s success should ensure that Maricopa has a second annual Night Out.

Mariocopa’s Fire Department was out in full force, displaying their new vehicles.

Detective Walt Hunter from the Florence Police Department and volunteer Nancy Zeiher showed off their beautiful mounts.

Sonoran Search and Rescue members (left to right) Jack McLain with Loki, Unit Commander Louis Villa with Blitzen, Tammy Carson and Marla Villa with Cholla.

Sheriff’s Deputy Sergio Ochoa took time out to talk to Cub Scout Ethan Jamieson.

PRL Director Marty McDonald and wife Marisa took advantage of the free T-shirts and hot dogs.